Where I'm Coming From

June 22, 2007

I just want to take a minute to let you know where it is I am coming from in terms of my art both visually and written.

I have almost no hang ups and laugh in the face of most taboos. My art reflects this and I sometimes push people’s emotional buttons for better or worse. I certainly hope you enjoy my stuff and I do make every effort to ensure those people who do not want to be exposed to it are not. The subjectiveness of art means that I can mean one thing, but it is interpreted as another. In the interests of maintaining the amazing tone and quality of this site I will happily remove any works if requested.

I do tend to use myself as a subject, mainly out of a lack of options, but also out of my perfectionist nature. Again this is something that really changes the dynamic of art and as such I am doing my best to tread lightly.

I also like to draw from reality which provokes strong reactions. It is harder to confront something if it is personalised and has a context which is meaningful to you. I think this makes art more real and exciting and dangerous and limitless. It can be emotionally draining (and plain terrifying) for the creator but of amazing value to the viewer. I hope I am not the only person who appreciates this perspective on the creation of art.

So what is all this getting at? I guess what I’m saying is that I’m trying my best to walk a fine line between making the art I want to make, and doing it in an inoffensive way. If you want to talk to me about it, I welcome and encourage you to do so.

Journal Comments

Jo, don’t you dare change a single thing you are doing. Your art both writen and visual is quite amazing and this site would be poorer for you not being here or for your attitude changing to the more “mainstream”.I love your openness and ability to laugh at yourself.Don’t ever question yourself again, you have nothing to fear from what you are doing.Keep up the fantastic work! :-)

kseriphyn
over 9 years ago

I love your work Jo, that’s why you’re on my watchlist. Your work is a statment with great class. It shows a gritty side on the surface, but if you look closer, there is a underlining vulnerability and beauty that is so inviting.

Hi Jo, I find you interesting to watch. I admit that at first I felt there was too much exhibitionism in your work, that it was almost narcissistic (no offence intended), but the more I watch, the more I realize the ideas you’re exploring through your own subjectivity. Maybe I’m confronted by the idea of people looking at me in the same way you allow them to look at you, and in a sense it is brave because when you’re the subject of your work you open your Self up to critique. A lot of us would prefer to hide behind our work, but you’ve put yourself right in it.

Mate i think you doing a fantastic job……there is no fakeness in your work at all…..I also take a lot of photo’s of myself..partly because i am always around and do what I’m told,but I am also exploring who I am…just expressing part of this in an artistic manner!

Don’t change a thing…Please!? There is absolutely nothing offensive about your work. I find it interesting, funny, insightful, moving, aesthetically pleasing…I could go on. Basically I agree with pinkelephant, anything with some thought and creativity behind it can’t offend me.

I think you are my soul sista!!!!! OMG!!!Funny, I used to do my most provocative stuff when I was younger (and when I was a lot more angry I think). I’ve mellowed a bit in my work-but my offensive, shocking side is ALWAYS lurking-just ask my family and friends ;) I’ll be watching you!!! You go girl….